Meaning of Bismillahir Rahmanir Raheem.

THE OPENING STATEMENT

A Concise Compilation

Compiled by
 Ali Hussain Dhuniya

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Bismillahi Wal Hamdullillah Was Salaatu Was Salaamu ‘alaa Rasoolillahi^[1]

Ammā Ba’d(To Proceed):

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Summary of the Article: Bismillahir Rahmanir Raheem and A‘udhu Billahi min ash-Shaytan ir-Rajeem

The article explains the meaning and importance of saying “Bismillahir Rahmanir Raheem” (In the Name of Allah, the Most Merciful, the Especially Merciful) which is called “basmalah”. It begins by breaking down each word and showing that when a Muslim says “Bismillah,” they are starting their actions by seeking help, blessings, and guidance from Allah. The names Ar-Rahman and Ar-Raheem both describe Allah’s mercy—one is general mercy for all creation, and the other is special mercy for the believers, especially in the Hereafter. This phrase reminds a person to stay humble and connected to Allah in everything they do.

The text also explains that saying Bismillah is a Sunnah (practice) of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. He used to begin his letters, speeches, and important matters with it, and many scholars followed this practice in their writings. It is considered the best way to begin books, letters, and important actions. Some commonly quoted hadith about starting with Bismillah are discussed, and although their authenticity is debated, their meaning is generally accepted because it is supported by other Islamic teachings.

Furthermore, the article highlights that saying Bismillah before actions is recommended in many daily activities such as eating, making wudu (ablution), and other important tasks. Scholars mention that remembering Allah in this way brings protection, blessings, and success, and it even weakens Shaytan. However, it should not be said aloud in places like the bathroom, out of respect.

The text also explains Isti‘adhah, which is A‘udhu Billahi min ash-Shaytan ir-Rajeem (saying “I seek refuge in Allah from Shaytan”), which is recited before reading the Qur’an or when facing anger or evil thoughts. It means asking Allah for protection from Satan, who is an enemy to humans. This practice helps a believer stay safe from harmful whispers and distractions.

In addition, the article discusses Islamic rulings and scholarly opinions about when and how to say Bismillah, such as reading it silently in prayer and saying it before important actions. It also explains the khutbah (sermon) of the Prophet ﷺ, which includes praising Allah and warning against religious innovations (bid‘ah). The Prophet strongly warned that adding new practices into religion is dangerous and can lead to misguidance.

Overall, the article teaches that saying Bismillah is a powerful and meaningful act. It connects a person to Allah, brings blessings into daily life, protects from harm, and follows the example of the Prophet ﷺ. It encourages Muslims to begin all important actions with the name of Allah sincerely and correctly.

End of Summary

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Table of Contents:

A Concise Compilation

Compiled by
Ali Hussain Dhuniya

Summary of the Article: Bismillahir Rahmanir Raheem and A‘udhu Billahi min ash-Shaytan ir-Rajeem

بِسۡمِ اللهِ الرَّحۡمٰنِ الرَّحِيۡمِ 1. (Bismillāhir-Raḥmānir-Raḥīm)

Word-by-word:

Common English Translations:

Brief Explanations:

💡 Deeper understanding:

2.Shaykh Moosa Richardson (may Allah have mercy on him) mentions in his compilation book called ‘Kitab-ut-Tawheed by Allamah Shaykh Muhammad Abdul Bin Wahab(The Book of Monotheism)’ that:

3.Explanation of Bismillāhir-Raḥmānir-Raḥīm ( بِسۡمِ اللهِ الرَّحۡمٰنِ الرَّحِيۡمِ ) by Shaykh Moosha Richardson:

Question: Is the following a Hadith Sahih(authentic)?

"Every matter that is started without Bismillah is useless."

or

“Every matter of importance that is not begun with the praise of Allah will be left deficient.”

4.Al-Allamah Hafiz Ibn Kathir (rahimahullah) writes in his tafsir(summarized) of Surah Fatihah Verse 1:

Basmalah is recommended before performing any Deed

5. Question was posed to “Allamah Al-Mufti Imam Salih Al-Fawzan rahimahullah”: Some people normally say: "Bismillah" whenever they intend to do anything normal. Is this something legislated or should it be rejected?

6.What is Called Khutbah al-Ḥājah

7. To know about the consequences of bid‘ah (religious innovation) that one will face in this world and the Hereafter,see this footnotes.

8.Shaykh Abu Iyyad Amjad Rafiq

9.Allamah Imam Abdul Aziz bin Baz said in his famous book :”Important Lessons for Every Muslims” on pdf page 17-19 that:

10.Fatwa(Ruling) regarding  Bismillāhir-Raḥmānir-Raḥīm (بِسۡمِ اللهِ الرَّحۡمٰنِ الرَّحِيۡمِ) & A‘ūdhu billāhi min ash-shayṭān ir-rajīm(أعوذ بالله من الشيطان الرجيم)

1. Allamah Al-Mufti Al-Faqhi Shaykh “Salih Al Fawzan”(may Allah have mercy on him)

2. Al-Allmah Shaykh ʿAbd al-Raḥmān ibn Nāṣir al-Saʿdī rahimahullah tafsir(commentary of the Quran):

3. Al-Allamah Imam Hafiz Ibn Kathir rahimahullah tafsir

أعوذ بالله من الشيطان الرجيم

A‘ūdhu billāhi min ash-shayṭān ir-rajīm is called Isti`adhah (seeking Refuge).

Meaning:
“I seek refuge in Allah from the accursed Shaytan.”

The Tafsir of Isti`adhah (seeking Refuge)

Seeking Refuge before reciting the Qur'an

Seeking Refuge with Allah when One is Angry

Is the Isti`adhah (seeking Refuge) required

Virtues of the Isti`adhah

What does Isti`adhah mean

Why the Devil is called Shaytan

The Meaning of Ar-Rajim

Bismillah is the First Ayah of Al-Fatihah

Basmalah aloud in the Prayer

The Meaning of Ar-Rahman Ar-Rahim - the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful

11.Questions & Answers regarding  Bismillāhir-Raḥmānir-Raḥīm (بِسۡمِ اللهِ الرَّحۡمٰنِ الرَّحِيۡمِ) called Basmalah & A‘ūdhu billāhi min ash-shayṭān ir-rajīm(أعوذ بالله من الشيطان الرجيم) called Isti`adhah.

1.What if we read the Quran from anywhere or from the middle of Quran, do we need to recite Basmalah(Bismillahi ir-Rahman ir-Rahim)?

The answer is; recite as it is what you see in the Mushaf(is an Arabic word for a codex or collection of sheets, but also refers to a written copy of the Quran). I heard the evidence from Shaykh Fawzan, but I am unable to remember it at this time.

2.The Ruling On Reciting The Basmalah In Sūrah Al-Fātiḥah Out Loud In Ṣalāh | Shaykh Ṣāliḥ Al-Fawzān : It is read silently. It is not read loudly. This is the sunnah; that the Basmalah in the first chapter of Al-Quran Surah Fatihah is read silently.  See here[translation text in English + Arabic Audio], Why Do We Say The Basmalah In Al-Fātiḥah Silently In Ṣalāh? Answered by Shaykh Ṣāliḥ bn Fawzān

3.Saying the Basmalah in Audible Prayers(prayers in which imam recite surah Fatiha loud like in Salatul Fajir, Maghrib & Isha are Audible prayers)

4.Some people normally say: "Bismilian" whenever they intend to do anything normal. Is this something legislated or should it be rejected? By Shaykh Salih Al Fawzan:

5.I forget to say Bismillah before eating by Allamah Imam Muhammad Ibn Salih Al Uthaymin: “ The scholars have differed regarding saying bismillãh ("in the name of Allāh") before eating, is it obligatory or Islamically Recommended?

What is correct is that it is obligatory and that it is mandatory for a person to say bismilläh when he is about to eat. If he forgets, he says the basmalah when he remembers and says bismilläh awwalahu wa akhirahu ("in the name of Allãh in its beginning and its end") If he doesn't do this then his punishment is that his enemy will eat with him. And he is the devil. May Alläh aid us and you against him. ” [Source: I forget to say Bismillah before eating, what should I do?]

6.I Forgot to Say Bismillah Before Wudu | Shaykh al-Albani

7.Can I say Bismillah in the Bathroom Before Performing Wudu? | Shaykh Salih al-Luhaydan

8.Is it Obligatory to say Bismillah before a Surah in Salah(Namaj) by Allamah Imam Abdul Aziz ibn Baz RahimahuAllah

9.Is it permissible to listen to the Quran while in the bathroom? - Explained by Shaykh Bin Baaz

10.Saying Bismillah before eating

أعوذ بالله من الشيطان الرجيم 11(I seek refuge with Allah from Satan, the accursed) saying when one gets Angry

According to scholarly opinion, it is permissible to say "Bismillāhir-Raḥmānir-Raḥīm" before eating, though the recommended practice is to say "Bismillah". This is based on the hadith narrated by `A’ishah (may Allah be pleased with her), where the Prophet ﷺ said:

12. Summary in points:

13.Footnotes: Read the footnotes as you read the main text, because they add a lot of benefits. ✅

🚫 1. Deprived of the Prophet’s Intercession and the Hawdh (Fountain)

❌ 2. Allah prevents the Innovator from Repenting in this worldly life

😈 3. Shayṭān (Iblīs) Loves Innovation More Than Sin

Second Point (Very Important)

بِسۡمِ اللهِ الرَّحۡمٰنِ الرَّحِيۡمِ 1. (Bismillāhir-Raḥmānir-Raḥīm)

The English Translation: "In the Name of Allah, the Entirely Merciful, the Especially Merciful.

The phrase بِسْمِ ٱللَّهِ ٱلرَّحْمَٰنِ ٱلرَّحِيمِ (Bismillāhir-Raḥmānir-Raḥīm) is one of the most profound and oft-repeated phrases in Islam. It appears at the beginning of every Sūrah(chapters) in the Qur’ān except Sūrah At-Tawbah. Its meaning is very deep.It is also called “basmalah”.

Word-by-word:

• بِسْمِ (Bismi) → "In the Name of"
  
• ٱللَّهِ (Allāh) → "Allah" (The One True God, who deserved to be worshipped alone without any partners)
  
• ٱلرَّحْمَٰنِ (Ar-Raḥmān) → "The Most Compassionate / The Entirely Merciful" (mercy that encompasses all creation)
  
• ٱلرَّحِيمِ (Ar-Raḥīm) → "The Especially Merciful" (continuous mercy, especially for the believers)

Common English Translations:

1. "In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful."
   
2. "In the Name of Allah, the Entirely Merciful, the Especially Merciful."
   
3. "In the Name of Allah, the Most Compassionate, the Most Merciful."
   
4. "In the Name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful."
   
5. "I begin with the Name of Allah, the All-Merciful, the Ever-Merciful."

Brief Explanations:

• “In the Name of Allah(بِسۡمِ اللهِ)” → means starting an action seeking blessings, help, and guidance from Allah.
  
• Ar-Raḥmān (الرحمن) → Allah’s vast, all-encompassing mercy for every creation, believer or disbeliever, human or animal.
  
• Ar-Raḥīm (الرحيم) → Allah’s special, continuous mercy reserved for the believers, especially in the Hereafter.
  

💡 Deeper understanding:

• By saying Bismillāh, a Muslim acknowledges that every action should be connected to Allah and not done in arrogance or heedlessness.
  
• The two Names together (Ar-Raḥmān, Ar-Raḥīm) show the perfection of Allah’s mercy—comprehensive and everlasting.

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2.Shaykh Moosa Richardson (may Allah have mercy on him) mentions in his compilation book called ‘Kitab-ut-Tawheed by Allamah Shaykh Muhammad Abdul Bin Wahab(The Book of Monotheism)’ that:

«bismillāhir-Raḥmānir-Raḥīm» The basmalah in a written work is a Sunnah of the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) and from some angles, it is more appropriate than khutbah al-ḥājah.

Now if we've mentioned that khutbah al-ḥājah was his introduction to many of his speeches and admonishments – how can we say that it is more appropriate to begin a book with «bismillāhir-Raḥmānir-Raḥīm»?

Some of the scholars made a distinction that the basmalah is the best Sunnah to be instituted, and the more specific practice of the Messenger (ﷺ). The number of things that the Messenger (ﷺ) wrote, whether to kings and rulers of his time, letters to people, or the pact of Hudaybiyyah, all consistently began with «bismillāhir-Raḥmānir-Raḥīm.»

We see then, that this practice was indeed taken from him, the companions, and the tabi'ūn, and it was passed on. It reached some of the authors of the greatest books of Islam, who solely began their books using the phrase, «bismillāhir-Raḥmānir-Raḥīm.» In the Name of Allah, the Extremely Merciful, the One Whose Mercy encompasses the believers on the Day of Judgment.

An example of this would be Abū 'Abdillāh Muḥammad bin. Ismā'īl al-Bukhārī, better known as al-Bukhārī (رحمه الله).He is the great Imam and author of Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī, the most authentic compilation of ḥadīth with their chains written. His book began simply with: "bismillāhir-Raḥmānir-Raḥīm - The Book of the Initial Bringing of Revelation." He began with the basmalah.

So with that, a number of scholars all the way into later times, including Shaykh al-Islām Muḥammad bin 'Abdul-Wahhāb, began their books by simply saying «bismillāhir-Raḥmānir-Raḥīm.» Furthermore, some of the scholars, especially those who compile aḥādīth along with āyāt in chapters similar to Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī and Kitāb at-Tawḥīd, feared that if they were to write an introduction from themselves other than «bismillāhir-Raḥmānir-Raḥīm» it might be considered blameworthy. This was from the angle of implementing the statement of Allah:

O you who believe! Make not (a decision) in advance before Allâh and His Messenger (صلى الله عليه وسلم), and fear Allâh. Verily! Allâh is All-Hearing, All-Knowing. Quran Surah Al-Hujurat 49:1 — Al-Hilali & Muhsin Khan Translation

Some of them considered that the best application of this āyah (to make it inclusive of so many things) means that we allow it to apply to the books we write. So, if one were to write a book containing āyāt and aḥādīth, the most appropriate introduction would be to simply name Allah and begin with the blessing of His Name, say nothing from our ownselves, and going right into what Allah and His Messenger (ﷺ) have said, whether it is obligatory or not. This is just to apply the āyah in every possible way that it could be applied.

This is likely the motivation behind many of the authors who simply began their books with the basmalah. It is also likely (we have to say likely because we cannot confirm it and say this is absolute) the reason why the author began with the basmalah. Other alternate explanations have been offered by some of the scholars. They mentioned a commonly quoted ḥadīth that says that any sermon or speech of importance that begins without the basmalah is deficient. This ḥadīth attributed to the Messenger (ﷺ) is actually unauthentic and is not to be used as a proof for beginning a book, a class or an address with the basmalah. Rather, the generality of the practice of the Messenger (ﷺ) is what establishes for us the legislated nature of beginning with it and not the unauthentic ḥadīth attributed to him.End^[2]

In summary, Bismillahir Rahmanir Raheem(basmalah) is most appropriate when beginning written works such as books, letters, or documents, while for addressing an audience—like at a marriage ceremony, public speaking, or giving lectures—it is best to first say the basmalah and then follow with Khutbah al-Hajah.

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3.Explanation of Bismillāhir-Raḥmānir-Raḥīm ( بِسۡمِ اللهِ الرَّحۡمٰنِ الرَّحِيۡمِ ) by Shaykh Moosha Richardson:

«ar-Raḥmān, ar-Raḥīm» These are two names of Allah that refer to His Mercy. The scholars mentioned that ar-Raḥīm indicates the Possessor of a Mercy that is specific to the Hereafter, meaning a mercy specific to the believers, those whom shall be rewarded on the Day of Judgment.

The name ar-Raḥmān includes the meaning of Mercy which extends to those who disbelieve in Him, reject His Message, and fight against His Messengers. In this life, He envelops them and the rest of the creation in His Mercy, including animals, birds, fish, trees, and wildlife. However, the Mercy that is salvation forever from the Hell-fire (and the mercy for safety, eternal bliss and happiness) is reserved for those who give Allah His right and do not violate it. The right to be worshipped alone.

«bismillāhir-Raḥmānir-Raḥīm» The basmalah in a written work is a Sunnah of the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) and from some angles, it is more appropriate than khutbah al-ḥājah.End^[3]

Question: Is the following a Hadith Sahih(authentic)?

"Every matter that is started without Bismillah is useless."

or

“Every matter of importance that is not begun with the praise of Allah will be left deficient.”

وعنه عن رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم قال‏: ‏ ‏ "‏كل أمر ذي بال لا يبدأ فيه‏: ‏ بالحمد لله فهو أقطع‏"‏ حديث حسن، ‏(‏‏(‏رواه أبو داود وغيره‏)‏‏)‏‏.‏

Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said, "Any matter of importance which is not begun with Al-hamdu lillah (praise be to Allah) remains defective." [Abu Dawud].

Riyad as-Salihin 1394

Abu Huraira reported: The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, said, “Every matter of importance that is not begun with the praise of Allah will be left deficient.”

Source: Sunan Ibn Majah 1894 - Hasan (fair) according to Ibn Hajar

Answer:

When it comes to the authenticity of these hadiths and similar other hadiths, then based upon the usool of hadees, they are weak and not acceptable and can’t be attributed to the Last Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, even though some scholars mention them as hasan or saheeh. Because when scholars mention a hadith as sahih or hasan, it doesn’t make it acceptable automatically unless it goes through verification and checking by the principles of hadees, and it is the job of Muhaddith scholars.

However, the meaning of these hadiths is correct, and it has supporting evidences in other places of the Qur’an and Sunnah, as clarified by our scholars.

These hadith was classed as hasan or saheeh by a number of scholars. It was classed as hasan by al-Nawawi and Ibn Hajar, and it was classed as saheeh by Ibn Daqeeq al-‘Eid and Ibn Mulqin.

Allamah Shaykh Ibn Baaz (may Allah have mercy on him) was asked about it and said:

This hadith was narrated via two or more isnaads by Ibn Hibbaan and others. Some scholars classed it as da‘eef, but it is more likely to be hasan because of corroborating evidence (hasan li ghayrihi). End quote. Source: Majmoo‘ Fataawa Ibn Baaz (25/135).

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4.Al-Allamah Hafiz Ibn Kathir (rahimahullah) writes in his tafsir(summarized) of Surah Fatihah Verse 1:

Basmalah is recommended before performing any Deed

Basmalah (reciting Bismillah) is recommended before starting any action or deed. For instance, Basmalah is recommended before starting a Khutbah (speech).

The Basmalah is also recommended before one enters the place where he wants to relieve himself, there is a Hadith concerning this practice. Further, Basmalah is recommended at the beginning of ablution, for Imam Ahmad and the Sunan compilers recorded that Abu Hurayrah, Sa`id bin Zayd and Abu Sa`id narrated from the Prophet ﷺ,

«لَا وُضُوءَ لِمَنْ لَمْ يَذْكُرِ اسْمَ اللهِ عَلَيْهِ»

(There is no valid ablution for he who did not mention Allah's Name in it.)

This Hadith is Hasan (good). Also, the Basmalah is recommended before eating, for Muslim recorded in his Sahih that the Messenger of Allah ﷺ said to `Umar bin Abi Salamah while he was a child under his care,

«قُلْ بِسْمِ اللهِ وَكُلْ بِيَمِينِكَ وَكُلْ مِمَّا يَلِيكَ»

(Say Bismillah, eat with your right hand and eat from whatever is next to you.)

Some of the scholars stated that Basmalah before eating is obligatory. Basmalah before having sexual intercourse is also recommended. The Two Sahihs recorded that Ibn `Abbas said that the Messenger of Allah ﷺ said,

«لَوْ أَنَّ أَحَدَكُمْ إِذَا أَرَادَ أَنْ يَأْتِيَ أَهْلَهُ قَالَ: بِسْمِ اللهِ اللَهُمَّ جَنِّبْنَا الشَّيْطَانَ وَجَنِّبِ الشَّيْطَانَ مَا رَزَقْتَنَا،فَإنَّهُ إِنْ يُقَدَّرْ بَيْنَهُمَا وَلَدٌ لَمْ يَضُرَّهُ الشَّيْطَانُ أَبَدًا»

(If anyone of you before having sexual relations with his wife says, 'In the Name of Allah. O Allah! Protect us from Satan and also protect what you grant us (meaning the coming offspring) from Satan,' and if it is destined that they should have a child then, Satan will never be able to harm that child.)

End - Taken from the summarized tafsir(commentary of the Quran) based upon Quran and Sunnah, compiled by Hafiz Imam ibn Katheer rahimahullah(may Allah have mercy on him).

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5. Question was posed to “Allamah Al-Mufti Imam Salih Al-Fawzan rahimahullah”: Some people normally say: "Bismillah" whenever they intend to do anything normal. Is this something legislated or should it be rejected?

Shaykh Salih Al Fawzan said:

“Remembering Allah (the Most High) by saying Bismillah is among the things that grant protection from the remembrances of Allah. Saying it is a legislative practice except when a person is relieving himself in the bathroom. In that instance he doesn’t mention Allah’s name until he leaves, however, he can remember Allah in his heart but not on his tongue.”

Similarly, there are several other reasons for commencing our tasks with the name of Allah. Among them:

1. The Qur’an begins with “Bismillah” except Surah At-Tawbah.
2. Rasulullah ﷺ commenced his letters to the various kings with “Bismillah.”
3. The Last Prophet ﷺ said:

“…When you recite Bismillah, Shaytan contracts till he reaches the size of a fly.”

Full hadith^[4]:

عَنْ أَبِى الْمَلِيحِ عَنْ رَجُلٍ قَالَ كُنْتُ رَدِيفَ النَّبِىِّ -صلى الله عليه وسلم- فَعَثَرَتْ دَابَّتُهُ فَقُلْتُ تَعِسَ الشَّيْطَانُ . فَقَالَ « لاَ تَقُلْ تَعِسَ الشَّيْطَانُ فَإِنَّكَ إِذَا قُلْتَ ذَلِكَ تَعَاظَمَ حَتَّى يَكُونَ مِثْلَ الْبَيْتِ وَيَقُولَ بِقُوَّتِى وَلَكِنْ قُلْ بِسْمِ اللَّهِ فَإِنَّكَ إِذَا قُلْتَ ذَلِكَ تَصَاغَرَ حَتَّى يَكُونَ مِثْلَ الذُّبَابِ ».

Abu Al-Malih narrated that a man said: “I was riding behind the Prophet (sallahu alayhi wa sallim) and his mount stumbled. I said: “May the Shaytan perish! The Prophet (sallahu alayhi wa sallim) said: “ Do not say” May the Shaytan perish,” because when you say that he swells up so much that he becomes like a house and says,” By my power.” Rather say say: Bismillah (In the name of Allah), “for if you say that the Shaytan shrinks until he becomes like a fly.”- Collected by Abu Dawud (4982 ) and Ahmed (5/59)  graded Sahih by Shaykh Abdul Muhsin Al-Abbadd (may Allah preserve him) and Sahih by Imam Al-Albani in Abu Dawud 4982.

4. Al-Allamah Hafiz Ibn Kathir (rahimahullah) cited Hadiths clearly recommending reciting Bismillah before:

• Meals
• Entering the toilet
• Engaging in sexual relations with one’s wife
• Wudu, etc.

These are only a few examples; see Fathul Bari, Hadith: 4553 for more supports of this practice.

Therefore, the meaning of these hadith is acceptable and applicable. Allah opens His Book with the Basmalah, and Sulaymaan (peace be upon him) opened his letter to the Queen of Sheba (Saba’) with the Basmalah. Allah says (interpretation of the meaning): “Verily, it is from Sulaymaan (Solomon), and verily, it (reads): In the Name of Allaah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful” [al-Naml 27:30]. The Prophet (blessings and peace of Allah be upon him) opened his letter to Heraclius with the Basmalah, and he used to start his khutbahs with praise and glorification of Allah.

Most of the fuqaha’(jurist) are of the view that it is prescribed and mustahabb to say the Basmalah when starting important things.

Conclusion:
One is indeed encouraged to say Bismillah before any task.

And Allah Subhanawotala knows best.

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6.What is Called Khutbah al-Ḥājah

Jābir b. ʿAbdullāh said:

When Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) delivered the sermon, his eyes became red, his voice rose, and his anger increased so that he was like one giving a warning against the enemy and saying:

"The enemy has made a morning attack on you and in the evening too."

He would also say:

"The Last Hour and I have been sent like these two."

And he would join his forefinger and middle finger; and would further say:

"The best of the speech is embodied in the Book of Allah, and the best of the guidance is the guidance given by Muhammad (ﷺ). And the most evil affairs are their innovations (bidʿah); and every innovation is misguidance."

He would further say:

"I am more dear to a Muslim even than his self; and he who left behind property that is for his family; and he who dies under debt or leaves children (in helplessness), the responsibility (of paying his debt and bringing up his children) lies on me."

— Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim 867

Or in another narration

…The Khutbah of need is: Al-hamdu lillahi nahmadhu wa nasta`inuhu wa nastaghfiruhu, wa na`udhu billahi min shururi anfusina wa min sayi'ati a`malina, man yahdihillahu fala mudilla lahu, wa man yudlil fala hadiya lahu. Wa ashadu an la ilaha illallahu wahduhu la sharika lahu, wa anna Muhammadan `abduhu wa rasuluhu.

The Meaning of it: “Praise is to Allah, we praise Him and we seek His help and His forgiveness. We seek refuge with Allah from the evil of our own souls and from our bad deeds, Whomsoever Allah guides will never be led astray; and whomsoever is led astray, no one can guide. I bear witness that none has the right to be worshiped but Allah, alone with no partner or associate, and that Muhammad (ﷺ) is His slave and His Messenger.”

Then add to your Khutbah the following three verses: 'O you who believe! Fear Allah as He should be feared, and die not except in the state of Islam (as Muslims) with complete submission to Allah.' And: 'O mankind! Be dutiful to your Lord, Who created you from a single person, and from him He created his wife, and from them both He created many men and women, and fear Allah through Whom you demand your mutual (rights), and (do not cut the relations of) the wombs (kinship). Surely, Allah is Ever an All-Watcher over you.' And: 'O you who believe! Keep your duty to Allah and fear Him, and speak (always) the truth. He will direct you to do righteous good deeds and will forgive you your sins...' until the end of the verse.” - source: in Sunan Ibn Mājah 1892, Sahih (authentic) according to Al-Albani.

This is called Khutbat al-Ḥājah (the sermon of need) that the Prophet (ﷺ) would often recite before giving a speech, a khutbah, or a marriage.

• You hear this sermon every Friday.
  
• It contains warnings against bidʿah (religious innovation) and the people of bidʿah(innovators).
  

This powerful warning was often repeated by the Prophet ﷺ in public gatherings, especially in the Friday Khutbah and other important occasions. What’s important to note is that when he made this declaration, there were no apparent innovations (bidʿah) yet present among his companions(Shahabah). That means this warning was a prophetic safeguard, showing the severe danger of religious innovation in Islam even before it appeared.

By stating “every misguidance is in the Fire,” the Prophet ﷺ was not just giving general advice—it was a serious warning to avoid anything added to the religion that he himself did not teach.

🔹 This shows:

• Bidʿah is a path to Hellfire even if the person intends good.
  
• Repeating it in the Khutbah emphasizes its central importance in Islam.
  
• He ﷺ prepared his followers early to stay firm upon the Sunnah and reject innovations, no matter how “good” or “spiritual” they may seem.

---

7. To know about the consequences of bid‘ah (religious innovation) that one will face in this world and the Hereafter,see this footnotes.^[5]

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8.Shaykh Abu Iyyad Amjad Rafiq

Every chapter of the Holy Quran starts with بِسۡمِ اللهِ الرَّحۡمٰنِ الرَّحِيۡمِ (In the Name of Allâh, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful) except Surah(chapter 09) At-Tawbah.

• بِسۡمِ اللهِ (bismillah) – In the Name of Allah
  
• الرَّحۡمٰنِ (rahman) – The Extremely Merciful, merciful to all creation: Muslims, non Muslims, wildlife, animals, inanimate objects, non living beings
  
• الرَّحِيۡمِ (raheem) – The Bestower of mercy: merciful to only believers(Muslims)
  so it becomes ➡️ (Bismillahi ir-Rahman ir-Rahim)

End^[6]

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9.Allamah Imam Abdul Aziz bin Baz said in his famous book :”Important Lessons for Every Muslims” on pdf page 17-19 that:

أعوذ بالله من الشيطان الرجيم

بِسۡمِ اللهِ الرَّحۡمٰنِ الرَّحِيۡمِ

The Explanation of Al-Isti'athah
 That is to say:

1. أعوذ بالله من الشيطان الرجيم (A'oothu billahi minash-Shaitaanir-Rajeem) – I seek refuge in Allâh from the accursed Shaitaan.
   
2. A'oothu: I seek refuge, protection, and fortification in You, O Allah.
   
3. Billahi: The Lord of all things; the true God Who is worshipped alone, and He has no partner.
   
4. Ash-Shaitaan: Otherwise known as Iblis or the Devil, may Allâh's curse be upon him.
   
5. Ar-Rajeem: The one who is stoned, repelled, and banished – banished from all mercy and good; he has no power to harm us, neither in our worldly affairs nor in our religion.
   

The Meaning of Al-Isti'athah
 I seek refuge and fortification from Allâh my Lord, against Shaitaan (Satan) the accursed, that he confuse me while I recite, or that he should make me go astray, to destruction and misery.

When the Prophet (ﷺ) would stand up at night to pray, he would

Begin his prayer with the Takbir, then say:

أَعُوذُ بِاللَّهِ السَّميعِ الْعَلِيمِ مِنَ الشَّيْطَانِ الرَّجِيمِ مِنْ هَمْزِهِ وَنَفْخِهِ وَنَفْثِهِ

I take refuge with Allah, the All-Hearing, the All-Knowing, from his pride, his poetry, and his madness. (It was recorded by the Sunan Compilers)

The Ruling on Al-Isti’āthah

Whenever one is about to recite the Qur'an—whether it is a chapter or more—it is Sunnah to first say,

"I seek refuge in Allâh from the accursed Shaitaan."

It is also recommended to say this phrase when one is angry or when one has evil thoughts.

The Explanation of Al-Basmala

بِسْمِ اللَّهِ الرَّحْمَٰنِ الرَّحِيمِ
 Bismillāhir-Raḥmānir-Raḥīm (In the Name of Allâh, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful) is called basmalah..

The Meaning of Al-Basmala

Before doing anything, I begin by naming and remembering Allâh Almighty, seeking His help in everything, asking Him alone for support in all of my affairs. Indeed, He is the Lord, the One worshipped, His favors are many and great, His generosity is vast, and His mercy encompasses all creatures.

The Exalted Word

• Allâh: The Possessor of divinity and the right to be worshipped over all creatures. It is the Name known and recognized to refer to the Lord, Glorious and Most High.
  
• Ar-Rahmān (The Most Beneficent): This is one of Allâh's Names; it is derived from Ar-Rahmah (mercy), and it signifies its vastness. This name signifies a mercy that embraces all of creation, for Allâh Almighty creates them and provides for them; that is from the completeness of His favors, which is why it is said, "O Rahmān over this world."
  
• Ar-Raḥīm (The Most Merciful): This is also one of Allâh's Names, and it too is derived from Ar-Rahmah (mercy), signifying the greatness of His mercy, but this time specifically for the believers in the Hereafter. Allâh Almighty says:

وَكَانَ بِالْمُؤْمِنِينَ رَحِيمًا

And He is Ever Most Merciful to the believers(Surah al-Ahzab 33:43). And that is why it is said, "O Raheem of the Hereafter."

It is legislated for the worshipper, or one asking, to say, "In the Name of Allâh, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful," with his recitation of every Surah from the Book of Allâh Almighty except for Surat At-Tawbah, in which case it is not recited.

In the obligatory Salat, one says it silently, even during the audible prayers. It is Sunnah for the worshipper to say Bismillah when:

• Eating and drinking
  
• Wearing clothing
  
• Entering and exiting the Masjid
  
• Sitting on a mount
  
• For every important matter
  

Just as it is obligatory for him to say Bismillah and Allahu Akbar when slaughtering a sheep or sacrificing a camel.

---

10.Fatwa(Ruling) regarding  Bismillāhir-Raḥmānir-Raḥīm (بِسۡمِ اللهِ الرَّحۡمٰنِ الرَّحِيۡمِ) & A‘ūdhu billāhi min ash-shayṭān ir-rajīm(أعوذ بالله من الشيطان الرجيم)

1. Allamah Al-Mufti Al-Faqhi Shaykh “Salih Al Fawzan”(may Allah have mercy on him)

Shaykh Salih Al Fawzan, may Allaah have mercy upon him, said: In the Name of Allaah, the Extremely Merciful, the Bestower of Mercy.

He(Shaykh Fawzan) began, may Allaah have mercy upon him, this treatise with the Basmalah, following the example of the Book of Allaah, the Mighty and Majestic, since the first thing which you see in the mus-haf (the printed copy of the Qur’aan), and before every soorah of it is, Bismi Allāhi Ar-Raĥmāni Ar-Raĥīm (In the Name of Allaah, the Extremely Merciful, the Bestower of Mercy).

So therefore it is used to begin treatises, or letters and books and works following the example of the Book of Allaah, the Mighty and Majestic. And likewise the Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wasallam used to write it at the start of his letters when he wrote to the governors and the chiefs and to those who were in the different regions of the earth, calling them to Islaam, he would begin his letter with,  Bismi Allāhi Ar-Raĥmāni Ar-Raĥīm.

And he sallallaahu ‘alaihi wasallam used to begin his talks and his speech with,  Bismi Allāhi Ar-Raĥmāni Ar-Raĥīm (“In the Name of Allaah, the Extremely Merciful, the Bestower of Mercy”), which shows that beginning with,  Bismi Allāhi Ar-Raĥmāni Ar-Raĥīm, is the sunnah of the Messenger sallallaahu ‘alaihi wasallam, just as Sulaymaan ‘alaihissalaam when he wrote to Bilqees, the Queen of Saba’, he began his letter with, Bismi Allāhi Ar-Raĥmāni Ar-Raĥīm:

قَالَتْ يَا أَيُّهَا الْمَلَأُ إِنِّي أُلْقِيَ إِلَيَّ كِتَابٌ كَرِيمٌ

إِنَّهُ مِن سُلَيْمَانَ وَإِنَّهُ بِسْمِ اللَّهِ الرَّحْمَٰنِ الرَّحِيمِ

أَلَّا تَعْلُوا عَلَيَّ وَأْتُونِي مُسْلِمِينَ

She said: O chiefs, a noble letter has been delivered to me, it is from Sulaymaan, and it reads, “In the Name of Allaah, the Extremely Merciful, the Bestower of Mercy”. Do not be haughty, and refuse what I call you to, but rather come to me in submission”. [27:29-31]

So it is befitting to begin with, Bismi Allāhi Ar-Raĥmāni Ar-Raĥīm, in every important affair and in every work which has importance and value, and in every letter.

So therefore those people who do not begin their works and their letters with, Bismi Allāhi Ar-Raĥmāni Ar-Raĥīm , those people have left the Prophetic sunnah and left following the example of the Book of Allaah the Mighty and Majestic and perhaps because of that these books of theirs and these letters of theirs do not contain blessing and do not contain benefit, because they are deprived of, Bismi Allāhi Ar-Raĥmāni Ar-Raĥīm. So therefore, they are deprived of benefit.

Why did they abandon, Bismi AllāhiAr-Raĥmāni Ar-Raĥīm? They abandoned it because it is a sunnah, and they flee away from the sunnah, or they blindly follow those people who flee away from the sunnah. So it is befitting that attention is given to the like of this.

So the meaning of, Bismi Allāhi Ar-Raĥmāni Ar-Raĥīm, is seeking aid through the Name of Allaah.

So his saying, Bismi Allāh (With the Name of Allaah), this is a preposition, and a word which is governed by the preposition, connected to something which is left unmentioned, whose meaning is taken to be, “I seek aid through the Name of Allaah, the Extremely Merciful, the Bestower of Mercy”, or, “I begin with the Name of Allaah, the Extremely Merciful, the Bestower of Mercy”, seeking blessings by means of it and seeking the aid of Allaah the Mighty and Majestic.

So therefore it is a tremendous preface for speech and for books and for letters, so a person seeks the aid of Allaah in its beginning and seeks blessing by means of His Name, He the Perfect and Most High.^[7]

2. Al-Allmah Shaykh ʿAbd al-Raḥmān ibn Nāṣir al-Saʿdī rahimahullah tafsir(commentary of the Quran):

بِسْمِ ٱللَّهِ ٱلرَّحْمَـٰنِ ٱلرَّحِيمِ ١

Bismillāhir-Raḥmānir-Raḥīm

<<In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful>> that is, I begin with every name of Allah (Subhanahu wa Taala - Glorified and Exalted is He); this includes all the (beautiful) names of Allah.

Allah - He is the One Who is worshipped, the only One Who deserves to be worshipped, because of the divine attributes He has, which are attributes of perfection.

the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. These two names indicate that He possesses great mercy that encompasses all things and includes all living beings, and He has decreed it for the pious, the followers of His Prophets and Messengers. Absolute mercy is for them; others have a share of it.

It should be noted that one of the basic principles on which the early generations of the Ummah and its leading scholars are agreed is belief in the names and attributes of Allah and how those attributes are manifested. For example, they believe that He is Most Gracious, Most Merciful; He possesses mercy that is one of His attributes and this mercy has an impact on His creation. So all types of blessings are signs of His mercy. The same applies to all of His names. We may say concerning the All-Knowing that He has (unlimited) knowledge, by means of which He knows all things. Similarly, the All-Powerful is possessed of might and has power over all things

3. Al-Allamah Imam Hafiz Ibn Kathir rahimahullah tafsir

أعوذ بالله من الشيطان الرجيم

A‘ūdhu billāhi min ash-shayṭān ir-rajīm is called Isti`adhah (seeking Refuge).

Meaning:
“I seek refuge in Allah from the accursed Shaytan.”

The Tafsir of Isti`adhah (seeking Refuge)

Allah said,

خُذِ الْعَفْوَ وَأْمُرْ بِالْعُرْفِ وَأَعْرِض عَنِ الْجَـهِلِينَ - وَإِمَّا يَنَزَغَنَّكَ مِنَ الشَّيْطَـنِ نَزْغٌ فَاسْتَعِذْ بِاللَّهِ إِنَّهُ سَمِيعٌ عَلِيمٌ

(Show forgiveness, enjoin what is good, and stay away from the foolish (i.e. don't punish them). And if an evil whisper comes to you from Shaytan (Satan), then seek refuge with Allah. Verily, He is Hearing, Knowing) (7:199-200),

ادْفَعْ بِالَّتِى هِىَ أَحْسَنُ السَّيِّئَةَ نَحْنُ أَعْلَمُ بِمَا يَصِفُونَ - وَقُلْ رَّبِّ أَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ هَمَزَاتِ الشَّيـطِينِ - وَأَعُوذُ بِكَ رَبِّ أَن يَحْضُرُونِ

(Repel evil with that which is better. We are Best-Acquainted with things they utter. And say: "My Lord! I seek refuge with You from the whisperings (suggestions) of the Shayatin (devils). And I seek refuge with You, My Lord! lest they should come near me.") (23:96-98) and,

وَلاَ تَسْتَوِى الْحَسَنَةُ وَلاَ السَّيِّئَةُ ادْفَعْ بِالَّتِى هِىَ أَحْسَنُ فَإِذَا الَّذِى بَيْنَكَ وَبَيْنَهُ عَدَاوَةٌ كَأَنَّهُ وَلِىٌّ حَمِيمٌ - وَمَا يُلَقَّاهَا إِلاَّ الَّذِينَ صَبَرُواْ وَمَا يُلَقَّاهَآ إِلاَّ ذُو حَظِّ عَظِيمٍ - وَإِمَّا يَنزَغَنَّكَ مِنَ الشَّيْطَـنِ نَزْغٌ فَاسْتَعِذْ بِاللَّهِ إِنَّهُ هُوَ السَّمِيعُ الْعَلِيمُ

(Repel (an evil) with one which is better, then verily he with whom there was enmity between you, (will become) as though he was a close friend. But none is granted it except those who are patient ـ and none is granted it except the owner of the great portion (of happiness in the Hereafter, i.e. Paradise and of a high moral character) in this world. And if an evil whisper from Shaytan tries to turn you away (O Muhammad ﷺ) (from doing good), then seek refuge in Allah. Verily, He is the Hearing, the Knowing.) (41:34-36) These are the only three Ayat that carry this meaning. Allah commanded that we be lenient human enemy, so that his soft nature might make him an ally and a supporter. He also commanded that we seek refuge from the satanic enemy, because the devil does not relent in his enmity if we treat him with kindness and leniency. The devil only seeks the destruction of the Son of Adam due to the vicious enmity and hatred he has always had towards man's father, Adam. Allah said,

يَـبَنِى آدَمَ لاَ يَفْتِنَنَّكُمُ الشَّيْطَـنُ كَمَآ أَخْرَجَ أَبَوَيْكُم مِّنَ الْجَنَّةِ

(O Children of Adam! Let not Shaytan deceive you, as he got your parents Adam and Hawwa' (Eve) out of Paradise) (7:27),

إِنَّ الشَّيْطَـنَ لَكُمْ عَدُوٌّ فَاتَّخِذُوهُ عَدُوّاً إِنَّمَا يَدْعُو حِزْبَهُ لِيَكُونُواْ مِنْ أَصْحَـبِ السَّعِيرِ

(Surely, Shaytan is an enemy to you, so take (treat) him as an enemy. He only invites his Hizb (followers) that they may become the dwellers of the blazing Fire) (35:6) and,

أَفَتَتَّخِذُونَهُ وَذُرِّيَّتَهُ أَوْلِيَآءَ مِن دُونِى وَهُمْ لَكُمْ عَدُوٌّ بِئْسَ لِلظَّـلِمِينَ بَدَلاً

(Will you then take him (Iblis) and his offspring as protectors and helpers rather than Me while they are enemies to you What an evil is the exchange for the Zalimun (polytheists, and wrongdoers, etc)) (18:50).

The devil assured Adam that he wanted to advise him, but he was lying. Hence, how would he treat us after he had vowed,

فَبِعِزَّتِكَ لأغْوِيَنَّهُمْ أَجْمَعِينَ إِلاَّ عِبَادَكَ مِنْهُمُ الْمُخْلَصِينَ

("By Your might, then I will surely, mislead them all. Except Your chosen servants among them (i.e. faithful, obedient, true believers of Islamic Monotheism).") (38:82-83)

Also, Allah said,

فَإِذَا قَرَأْتَ الْقُرْءَانَ فَاسْتَعِذْ بِاللَّهِ مِنَ الشَّيْطَـنِ الرَّجِيمِ

إِنَّهُ لَيْسَ لَهُ سُلْطَانٌ عَلَى الَّذِينَ ءَامَنُواْ وَعَلَى رَبِّهِمْ يَتَوَكَّلُونَ - إِنَّمَا سُلْطَـنُهُ عَلَى الَّذِينَ يَتَوَلَّوْنَهُ وَالَّذِينَ هُم بِهِ مُشْرِكُونَ

(So when you want to recite the Qur'an, seek refuge with Allah from Shaytan, the outcast (the cursed one). Verily, he has no power over those who believe and put their trust only in their Lord (Allah). His power is only over those who obey and follow him (Satan), and those who join partners with Him.) (16:98-100).

Seeking Refuge before reciting the Qur'an

Allah said,

فَإِذَا قَرَأْتَ الْقُرْءَانَ فَاسْتَعِذْ بِاللَّهِ مِنَ الشَّيْطَـنِ الرَّجِيمِ

(So when you want to recite the Qur'an, seek refuge with Allah from Shaytan, the outcast (the cursed one).) meaning, before you recite the Qur'an. Similarly, Allah said,

إِذَا قُمْتُمْ إِلَى الصَّلوةِ فاغْسِلُواْ وُجُوهَكُمْ وَأَيْدِيَكُمْ

(When you intend to offer As-Salah (the prayer), wash your faces and your hands (forearms)) (5:6) meaning, before you stand in prayer, as evident by the Hadiths that we mentioned. Imam Ahmad recorded that Abu Sa`id Al-Khudri said, "When the Messenger of Allah ﷺ would stand up in prayer at night, he would start his prayer with the Takbir (saying "Allahu Akbar"; Allah is Greater) and would then supplicate,

«سُبْحَانَكَ اللَّهُمَّ وَبِحَمْدِكَ، وَتَبَارَكَ اسْمُكَ، وَتَعَالَى جَدُّكَ، وَلَا إِلَهَ غَيْرُكَ»

(All praise is due to You, O Allah, and also the thanks. Blessed be Your Name, Exalted be Your sovereignty, and there is no deity worthy of worship except You.)

He would then say thrice,

«لَا إِلَهَ إِلَّا اللهُ»

(There is no deity worthy of worship except Allah,).

He would then say,

«أَعُوذُ بِاللهِ السَّمِيعِ الْعَلِيمِ مِنَ الشَّيْطَانِ الرَّجِيمِ مِنْ هَمْزَهِ وَنَفْخِهِ وَنَفْثِهِ»

(I seek refuge with Allah, the Hearing, the Knowing, from the cursed Satan, from his coercion, lures to arrogance and poems.)."

The four collectors of the Sunan recorded this Hadith, which At-Tirmidhi considered the most famous Hadith on this subject.

Abu Dawud and Ibn Majah recorded that Jubayr bin Mut`im said that his father said, "When the Messenger of Allah ﷺ started the prayer, he said,

«اللهُ أَكْبَرُ كَبِيرًا ثَلَاثًا الْحَمْدُ للهِ كَثِيرًا ثَلَاثًا سُبْحَانَ اللهِ بُكْرَةً وَأَصِيلًا ثَلَاثًا اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنَ الشَّيْطَانِ الرَّجِيمِ مِنْ هَمْزِهِ وَنَفْخِهِ وَنَفْثِهِ»

(Allah is the Greater, truly the Greatest (thrice); all praise is due to Allah always (thrice); and all praise is due to Allah day and night (thrice). O Allah! I seek refuge with You from the cursed Satan, from his Hamz, Nafkh and Nafth.)." `Amr said, "The Hamz means asphyxiation, the Nafkh means arrogance, and the Nafth means poetry." Also, Ibn Majah recorded that `Ali bin Al-Mundhir said that Ibn Fudayl narrated that `Ata' bin As-Sa'ib said that Abu `Abdur-Rahman As-Sulami said that Ibn Mas`ud said that the Prophet ﷺ said,

«اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنَ الشَّيطَانِ الرَجِيمِ وَهَمْزِهِ وَنَفْخِهِ وَنَفْثِهِ»

(O Allah! I seek refuge with You from the cursed devil, from his Hamz, Nafkh and Nafth.)

He said, "The Hamz means death, the Nafkh means arrogance, and the Nafth means poetry."

Seeking Refuge with Allah when One is Angry

In his Musnad, Al-Hafiz Abu Ya`la Ahmad bin `Ali bin Al-Muthanna Al-Mawsili reported that Ubayy bin Ka`b said, "Two men disputed with each other in the presence of the Messenger of Allah ﷺ and the nose of one of them became swollen because of extreme anger. The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said,

«إِنِّي لَأَعْلَمُ شَيْئًا لَوْ قَالَهُ لَذَهَبَ عَنْهُ مَا يَجِدُ: أَعُوذُ بِاللهِ مِنَ الشَّيْطَانِ الرَّجِيمِ»

(I know of some words that if he said them, what he feels will go away, 'I seek refuge with Allah from the cursed Satan.')"

An-Nasa'i also recorded this Hadith in his book, Al-Yawm wal-Laylah.

Al-Bukhari recorded that Sulayman bin Surad said, "Two men disputed in the presence of the Prophet while we were sitting with him. One of them was cursing the other fellow and his face turned red due to anger. The Prophet said,

«إِنِّي لَأَعْلَمُ كَلِمَةً لَوْ قَالَهَا لَذَهَبَ عَنْهُ مَا يَجِدُ، لَوْ قَالَ: أَعُوذُ بِاللهِ مِنَ الشَّيْطَانِ الرَّجِيمِ»

(I know of a statement which if he said it, will make what he feels disappear, `I seek refuge with Allah from the cursed Satan.') They said to the man, `Do you not hear what the Messenger of Allah ﷺ is saying' He said, `I am not insane."' Also, Muslim, Abu Dawud and An-Nasa'i recorded this Hadith.

There are many other Hadiths about seeking refuge with Allah. One can find this subject in the books on supplication and the virtues of righteous, good deeds.

Is the Isti`adhah (seeking Refuge) required

The majority of the scholars state that reciting the Isti`adhah (in the prayer and when reciting the Qur'an) is recommended and not required, and therefore, not reciting it does not constitute a sin. However, Ar-Razi recorded that `Ata' bin Abi Rabah said that the Isti`adhah is required in the prayer and when one reads the Qur'an. In support of `Ata's statement, Ar-Razi relied upon the apparent meaning of the Ayah,

فَاسْتَعِذْ

(Then seek refuge.) He said that the Ayah contains a command that requires implementation. Also, the Prophet always said the Isti`adhah. In addition, the Isti`adhah wards off the evil of Satan, which is necessary, the rule is that the means needed to implement a requirement of the religion is itself also required. And when one says, "I seek refuge with Allah from the cursed devil." Then this will suffice.

Virtues of the Isti`adhah

The Isti`adhah cleanses the mouth from the foul speech that it has indulged in. It also purifies the mouth and prepares it to recite the speech of Allah. Further, the Isti`adhah entails seeking Allah's help and acknowledging His ability to do everything. The Isti`adhah also affirms the servant's meekness, weakness and inability to face the enemy of his inner evil, whom Allah alone, Who created this enemy, is able to repel and defeat. This enemy does not accept kindness, unlike the human enemy. There are three Ayat in the Qur'an that affirm this fact. Also, Allah said,

إِنَّ عِبَادِى لَيْسَ لَكَ عَلَيْهِمْ سُلْطَـنٌ وَكَفَى بِرَبِّكَ وَكِيلاً

(Verily, My servants (i.e. the true believers of Islamic Monotheism) ـ you have no authority over them. And sufficient is your Lord as a Guardian.) (17:65).

We should state here that the believers, whom the human enemies kill, become martyrs, while those who fall victim to the inner enemy - Satan - become bandits. Further, the believers who are defeated by the apparent enemy - disbelievers - gain a reward, while those defeated by the inner enemy earn a sin and become misguided. Since Satan sees man where man cannot see him, it is befitting that the believers seek refuge from Satan with Whom Satan cannot see. The Isti`adhah is a form of drawing closer to Allah and seeking refuge with Him from the evil of every evil creature.

What does Isti`adhah mean

Isti`adhah means, "I seek refuge with Allah from the cursed Satan so that he is prevented from affecting my religious or worldly affairs, or hindering me from adhering to what I was commanded, or luring me into what I was prohibited from." Indeed, only Allah is able to prevent the evil of Satan from touching the son of Adam. This is why Allah allowed us to be lenient and kind with the human devil, so that his soft nature might cause him to refrain from the evil he is indulging in. However, Allah required us to seek refuge with Him from the evil of Satan, because he neither accepts bribes nor does kindness affect him, for he is pure evil. Thus, only He Who created Satan is able to stop his evil. This meaning is reiterated in only three Ayat in the Qur'an. Allah said in Surat Al-A`raf,

خُذِ الْعَفْوَ وَأْمُرْ بِالْعُرْفِ وَأَعْرِض عَنِ الْجَـهِلِينَ

(Show forgiveness, enjoin what is good, and turn away from the foolish (i.e. don't punish them).) (7:199)

This is about dealing with human beings. He then said in the same Surah,

وَإِمَّا يَنَزَغَنَّكَ مِنَ الشَّيْطَـنِ نَزْغٌ فَاسْتَعِذْ بِاللَّهِ إِنَّهُ سَمِيعٌ عَلِيمٌ

(And if an evil whisper comes to you from Shaytan, then seek refuge with Allah. Verily, He is Hearing, Knowing (7: 200).)

Allah also said in Surat Al-Mu'minun,

ادْفَعْ بِالَّتِى هِىَ أَحْسَنُ السَّيِّئَةَ نَحْنُ أَعْلَمُ بِمَا يَصِفُونَ - وَقُلْ رَّبِّ أَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ هَمَزَاتِ الشَّيـطِينِ - وَأَعُوذُ بِكَ رَبِّ أَن يَحْضُرُونِ

(Repel evil with that which is better. We are Best-Acquainted with the things they utter. And say: "My Lord! I seek refuge with You from the whisperings (suggestions) of the Shayatin (devils). And I seek refuge with You, My Lord! lest they should come near me." (23:96-98).)

Further, Allah said in Surat As-Sajdah,

وَلاَ تَسْتَوِى الْحَسَنَةُ وَلاَ السَّيِّئَةُ ادْفَعْ بِالَّتِى هِىَ أَحْسَنُ فَإِذَا الَّذِى بَيْنَكَ وَبَيْنَهُ عَدَاوَةٌ كَأَنَّهُ وَلِىٌّ حَمِيمٌ - وَمَا يُلَقَّاهَا إِلاَّ الَّذِينَ صَبَرُواْ وَمَا يُلَقَّاهَآ إِلاَّ ذُو حَظِّ عَظِيمٍ - وَإِمَّا يَنزَغَنَّكَ مِنَ الشَّيْطَـنِ نَزْغٌ فَاسْتَعِذْ بِاللَّهِ إِنَّهُ هُوَ السَّمِيعُ الْعَلِيمُ

(The good deed and the evil deed cannot be equal. Repel (the evil) with one which is better, then verily he, between whom and you there was enmity, (will become) as though he was a close friend. But none is granted it (the above quality) except those who are patient ـ and none is granted it except the owner of the great portion (of happiness in the Hereafter, i.e. Paradise and of a high moral character) in this world. And if an evil whisper from Shaytan tries to turn you away (from doing good), then seek refuge in Allah. Verily, He is the Hearing, the Knowing) (41:34-36).

Why the Devil is called Shaytan

In the Arabic language, Shaytan is derived from Shatana, which means the far thing. Hence, the Shaytan has a different nature than mankind, and his sinful ways are far away from every type of righteousness. It was also said that Shaytan is derived from Shata, (literally `burned'), because it was created from fire. Some scholars said that both meanings are correct, although they state that the first meaning is more plausible. Further, Siybawayh (the renowned Arab linguistic) said, "The Arabs say, `So-and-so has Tashaytan,' when he commits the act of the devils. If Shaytan was derived from Shata, they would have said, Tashayyata (rather than Tashaytan)." Hence, Shaytan is derived from the word that means, far away. This is why they call those who are rebellious (or mischievous) from among the Jinns and mankind a `Shaytan'. Allah said,

وَكَذَلِكَ جَعَلْنَا لِكُلِّ نِبِىٍّ عَدُوّاً شَيَـطِينَ الإِنْسِ وَالْجِنِّ يُوحِى بَعْضُهُمْ إِلَى بَعْضٍ زُخْرُفَ الْقَوْلِ غُرُوراً

(And so We have appointed for every Prophet enemies ـ Shayatin (devils) among mankind and Jinn, inspiring one another with adorned speech as a delusion (or by way of deception)) (6:112).

In addition, the Musnad by Imam Ahmad records that Abu Dharr said that the Messenger of Allah ﷺ said,

«يَا أَبَا ذَرَ تَعَوَّذْ بِاللهِ مِنْ شَيَاطِينِ الْإِنْسِ وَالْجِنِّ»

(O Abu Dharr! Seek refuge with Allah from the devils of mankind and the Jinns.) Abu Dharr said, "I asked him , `Are there human devils' He said, (Yes.)" Furthermore, it is recorded in Sahih Muslim that Abu Dharr said that the Messenger of Allah ﷺ said,

«يَقْطَعُ الصَّلَاةَ الْمَرْأَةُ وَالْحِمَارُ وَالْكَلْبُ الْأَسْوَدُ»

(The woman, the donkey and the black dog interrupt the prayer (if they pass in front of those who do not pray behind a Sutrah, i.e. a barrier).) Abu Dharr said, "I said, `What is the difference between the black dog and the red or yellow dog' He said,

«الْكَلْبُ الْأَسْوَدُ شَيْطَانٌ»

(The black dog is a devil.)."

Also, Ibn Jarir At-Tabari recorded that `Umar bin Al-Khattab once rode a Berthawn (huge camel) which started to proceed arrogantly. `Umar kept striking the animal, but the animal kept walking in an arrogant manner. `Umar dismounted the animal and said, "By Allah! You have carried me on a Shaytan. I did not come down from it until after I had felt something strange in my heart." This Hadith has an authentic chain of narrators.

The Meaning of Ar-Rajim

Ar-Rajim means, being expelled from all types of righteousness. Allah said,

وَلَقَدْ زَيَّنَّا السَّمَآءَ الدُّنْيَا بِمَصَـبِيحَ وَجَعَلْنَـهَا رُجُوماً لِّلشَّيَـطِينِ

(And indeed We have adorned the nearest heaven with lamps, and We have made such lamps Rujuman (as missiles) to drive away the Shayatin (devils)) (67:5).

Allah also said,

إِنَّا زَيَّنَّا السَّمَآءَ الدُّنْيَا بِزِينَةٍ الْكَوَكِبِ - وَحِفْظاً مِّن كُلِّ شَيْطَـنٍ مَّارِدٍ - لاَّ يَسَّمَّعُونَ إِلَى الْمَلإِ الاٌّعْلَى وَيُقْذَفُونَ مِن كُلِّ جَانِبٍ - دُحُوراً وَلَهُمْ عَذابٌ وَاصِبٌ - إِلاَّ مَنْ خَطِفَ الْخَطْفَةَ فَأَتْبَعَهُ شِهَابٌ ثَاقِبٌ

(Verily, We have adorned the near heaven with the stars (for beauty). And to guard against every rebellious devil. They cannot listen to the higher group (angels) for they are pelted from every side. Outcast, and theirs is a constant (or painful) torment. Except such as snatch away something by stealing, and they are pursued by a flaming fire of piercing brightness) (37:6-10).

Further, Allah said,

وَلَقَدْ جَعَلْنَا فِى السَّمَاءِ بُرُوجًا وَزَيَّنَّـهَا لِلنَّـظِرِينَ - وَحَفِظْنَـهَا مِن كُلِّ شَيْطَـنٍ رَّجِيمٍ - إِلاَّ مَنِ اسْتَرَقَ السَّمْعَ فَأَتْبَعَهُ شِهَابٌ مُّبِينٌ

(And indeed, We have put the big stars in the heaven and We beautified it for the beholders. And We have guarded it (near heaven) from every Shaytan Rajim (outcast Shaytan). Except him (devil) who steals the hearing then he is pursued by a clear flaming fire.) (15:16-18).

There are several similar Ayat. It was also said that Rajim means, the person who throws or bombards things, because the devil throws doubts and evil thoughts in people's hearts. The first meaning is more popular and accurate.

Bismillah is the First Ayah of Al-Fatihah

The Companions started the Book of Allah with Bismillah:

The scholars also agree that Bismillah is a part of an Ayah in Surat An-Naml (chapter 27). They disagree over whether it is a separate Ayah before every Surah, or if it is an Ayah, or a part of an Ayah, included in every Surah where the Bismillah appears in its beginning. Ad-Daraqutni also recorded a Hadith from Abu Hurayrah from the Prophet that supports this Hadith by Ibn Khuzaymah. Also, similar statements were attributed to `Ali, Ibn `Abbas and others.

The opinion that Bismillah is an Ayah of every Surah, except Al-Bara'ah (chapter 9), was attributed to (the Companions) Ibn `Abbas, Ibn `Umar, Ibn Az-Zubayr, Abu Hurayrah and `Ali. This opinion was also attributed to the Tabi`in: `Ata', Tawus, Sa`id bin Jubayr, Makhul and Az-Zuhri. This is also the view of `Abdullah bin Al-Mubarak, Ash-Shafi`i, Ahmad bin Hanbal, (in one report from him) Ishaq bin Rahwayh and Abu `Ubayd Al-Qasim bin Salam. On the other hand, Malik, Abu Hanifah and their followers said that Bismillah is not an Ayah in Al-Fatihah or any other Surah. Dawud said that it is a separate Ayah in the beginning of every Surah, not part of the Surah itself, and this opinion was also attributed to Ahmad bin Hanbal.

Basmalah aloud in the Prayer

As for Basmalah aloud during the prayer, those who did not agree that it is a part of Al-Fatihah, state that the Basmalah should not be aloud. The scholars who stated that Bismillah is a part of every Surah (except chapter 9) had different opinions; some of them, such as Ash-Shafi`i, said that one should recite Bismillah with Al-Fatihah aloud. This is also the opinion of many among the Companions, the Tabi`in and the Imams of Muslims from the Salaf and the later generations. For instance, this is the opinion of Abu Hurayrah, Ibn `Umar, Ibn `Abbas, Mu`awiyah, `Umar and `Ali - according to Ibn `Abdul-Barr and Al-Bayhaqi. Also, the Four Khalifahs - as Al-Khatib reported - were said to have held this view although the report from them is contradicted. The Tabi`in scholars who gave this Tafsir include Sa`id bin Jubayr, `Ikrimah, Abu Qilabah, Az-Zuhri, `Ali bin Al-Hasan, his son Muhammad, Sa`id bin Al-Musayyib, `Ata', Tawus, Mujahid, Salim, Muhammad bin Ka`b Al-Qurazi, Abu Bakr bin Muhammad bin `Amr bin Hazm, Abu Wa'il, Ibn Sirin, Muhammad bin Al-Munkadir, `Ali bin `Abdullah bin `Abbas, his son Muhammad, Nafi` the freed slave of Ibn `Umar, Zayd bin Aslam, `Umar bin `Abdul-Aziz, Al-Azraq bin Qays, Habib bin Abi Thabit, Abu Ash-Sha`tha', Makhul and `Abdullah bin Ma`qil bin Muqarrin. Also, Al-Bayhaqi added `Abdullah bin Safwan, and Muhammad bin Al-Hanafiyyah to this list. In addition, Ibn `Abdul-Barr added `Amr bin Dinar.

The proof that these scholars relied on is that, since Bismillah is a part of Al-Fatihah, it should be recited aloud like the rest of Al-Fatihah. Also, An-Nasa'i recorded in his Sunan, Ibn Hibban and Ibn Khuzaymah in their Sahihs and Al-Hakim in the Mustadrak, that Abu Hurayrah once performed the prayer and recited Bismillah aloud. After he finished the prayer, he said, "Among you, I perform the prayer that is the closest to the prayer of the Messenger of Allah ﷺ ." Ad-Daraqutni, Al-Khatib and Al-Bayhaqi graded this Hadith Sahih Furthermore, in Sahih Al-Bukhari it is recorded that Anas bin Malik was asked about the recitation of the Prophet . He said, "His recitation was unhurried." He then demonstrated that and recited, while lengthening the recitation of Bismillah Ar-Rahman Ar-Rahim, Also, in the Musnad of Imam Ahmad, the Sunan of Abu Dawud, the Sahih of Ibn Hibban and the Mustadrak of Al-Hakim - it is recorded that Umm Salamah said, "The Messenger of Allah ﷺ used to distinguish each Ayah during his recitation,

بِسْمِ اللَّهِ الرَّحْمَـنِ الرَّحِيمِ - الْحَمْدُ للَّهِ رَبِّ الْعَـلَمِينَ - الرَّحْمَـنِ الرَّحِيمِ - مَـلِكِ يَوْمِ الدِّينِ

(In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise and thanks be to Allah, the Lord of all that exists, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. The Owner of the Day of Recompense.)"

Ad-Daraqutni graded the chain of narration for this Hadith Sahih Furthermore, Imam Abu `Abdullah Ash-Shafi`i and Al-Hakim in his Mustadrak, recorded that Mu`awiyah led the prayer in Al-Madinah and did not recite the Bismillah. The Muhajirin who were present at that prayer criticized that. When Mu`awiyah led the following prayer, he recited the Bismillah aloud.

The Hadiths mentioned above provide sufficient proof for the opinion that the Bismillah is recited aloud. As for the opposing evidences and the scientific analysis of the narrations mentioned their weaknesses or otherwise it is not our desire to discuss this subject at this time.

Other scholars stated that the Bismillah should not be recited aloud in the prayer, and this is the established practice of the Four Khalifahs, as well as `Abdullah bin Mughaffal and several scholars among the Tabi`in and later generations. It is also the Madhhab (view) of Abu Hanifah, Ath-Thawri and Ahmad bin Hanbal.

Imam Malik stated that the Bismillah is not recited aloud or silently. This group based their view upon what Imam Muslim recorded that `A'ishah said that the Messenger of Allah ﷺ used to start the prayer by reciting the Takbir (Allahu Akbar; Allah is Greater) and then recite,

الْحَمْدُ للَّهِ رَبِّ الْعَـلَمِينَ

(All praise and thanks be to Allah, the Lord of all that exists.) (Ibn Abi Hatim 1:12).

Also, the Two Sahihs recorded that Anas bin Malik said, "I prayed behind the Prophet ﷺ, Abu Bakr, `Umar and `Uthman and they used to start their prayer with,

الْحَمْدُ للَّهِ رَبِّ الْعَـلَمِينَ

(All praise and thanks be to Allah, the Lord of all that exists.)

Muslim added, "And they did not mention,

بِسْمِ اللَّهِ الرَّحْمَـنِ الرَّحِيمِ

(In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful) whether in the beginning or the end of the recitation." Similar is recorded in the Sunan books from `Abdullah bin Mughaffal, may Allah be pleased with him.

These are the opinions held by the respected Imams, and their statements are similar in that they agree that the prayer of those who recite Al-Fatihah aloud or in secret is correct. All the favor is from Allah.

The Meaning of Ar-Rahman Ar-Rahim - the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful

Ar-Rahman and Ar-Rahim are two names derived from Ar-Rahmah (the mercy), but Rahman has more meanings that pertain to mercy than Ar-Rahim. There is a statement by Ibn Jarir that indicates that there is a consensus on this meaning. Further, Al-Qurtubi said, "The proof that these names are derived (from Ar-Rahmah), is what At-Tirmidhi recorded - and graded Sahih from `Abdur-Rahman bin `Awf that he heard the Messenger of Allah ﷺ say,

«قَالَ اللهُ تَعَالى: أَنَا الرَّحْمنُ خَلَقْتُ الرَّحِمَ وَشَقَقْتُ لَهَا اسْمًا مِنِ اسْمِي، فَمَنْ وَصَلَهَا وَصَلْتُهُ وَمَنْ قَطَعَها قَطَعْتُهُ»

(Allah the Exalted said, 'I Am Ar-Rahman. I created the Raham (womb, i.e. family relations) and derived a name for it from My Name. Hence, whoever keeps it, I will keep ties to him, and whoever severs it, I will sever ties with him.') He then said, "This is a text that indicates the derivation." He then said, "The Arabs denied the name Ar-Rahman, because of their ignorance about Allah and His attributes."

Al-Qurtubi said, "It was said that both Ar-Rahman and Ar-Rahim have the same meaning, such as the words Nadman and Nadim, as Abu `Ubayd has stated. Abu `Ali Al-Farisi said, `Ar-Rahman, which is exclusively for Allah, is a name that encompasses every type of mercy that Allah has. Ar-Rahim is what effects the believers, for Allah said,

وَكَانَ بِالْمُؤْمِنِينَ رَحِيماً

(And He is ever Rahim (merciful) to the believers.)' (33:43) Also, Ibn `Abbas said - about Ar-Rahman and Ar-Rahim, `They are two soft names, one of them is softer than the other (meaning it carries more implications of mercy)."'

Ibn Jarir said; As-Surri bin Yahya At-Tamimi narrated to me that `Uthman bin Zufar related that Al-`Azrami said about Ar-Rahman and Ar-Rahim, "He is Ar-Rahman with all creation and Ar-Rahim with the believers." Hence. Allah's statements,

ثُمَّ اسْتَوَى عَلَى الْعَرْشِ الرَّحْمَـنُ

(Then He rose over (Istawa) the Throne (in a manner that suits His majesty), Ar-Rahman) (25:59),) and,

الرَّحْمَـنُ عَلَى الْعَرْشِ اسْتَوَى

(Ar-Rahman (Allah) rose over (Istawa) the (Mighty) Throne (in a manner that suits His majesty).) (20:5)

Allah thus mentioned the Istawa - rising over the Throne - along with His Name Ar-Rahman, to indicate that His mercy encompasses all of His creation. Allah also said,

وَكَانَ بِالْمُؤْمِنِينَ رَحِيماً

(And He is ever Rahim (merciful) to the believers), thus encompassing the believers with His Name Ar-Rahim. They said, "This testifies to the fact that Ar-Rahman carries a broader scope of meanings pertaining to the mercy of Allah with His creation in both lives. Meanwhile, Ar-Rahim is exclusively for the believers." Yet, we should mention that there is a supplication that reads,

«رَحْمنَ الدُّنْيَا وَالْآخِرَةِ وَرَحِيمَهُمَا»

(The Rahman and the Rahim of this life and the Hereafter)

Allah's Name Ar-Rahman is exclusively His. For instance, Allah said,

قُلِ ادْعُواْ اللَّهَ أَوِ ادْعُواْ الرَّحْمَـنَ أَيًّا مَّا تَدْعُواْ فَلَهُ الاٌّسْمَآءَ الْحُسْنَى

(Say (O Muhammad ﷺ ): "Invoke Allah or invoke Ar-Rahman (Allah), by whatever name you invoke Him (it is the same), for to Him belong the Best Names) (17:110),) and,

وَاسْئلْ مَنْ أَرْسَلْنَا مِن قَبْلِكَ مِن رُّسُلِنَآ أَجَعَلْنَا مِن دُونِ الرَّحْمَـنِ ءَالِهَةً يُعْبَدُونَ

(And ask (O Muhammad ﷺ ) those of Our Messengers whom We sent before you: "Did We ever appoint alihah (gods) to be worshipped besides Ar-Rahman (Most Gracious, Allah)") (43:45).

Further, when Musaylimah the Liar called himself the Rahman of Yamamah, Allah made him known by the name `Liar' and exposed him. Hence, whenever Musaylimah is mentioned, he is described as `the Liar'. He became an example for lying among the residents of the cities and villages and the residents of the deserts, the bedouins.

Therefore, Allah first mentioned His Name - Allah - that is exclusively His and described this Name by Ar-Rahman, which no one else is allowed to use, just as Allah said,

قُلِ ادْعُواْ اللَّهَ أَوِ ادْعُواْ الرَّحْمَـنَ أَيًّا مَّا تَدْعُواْ فَلَهُ الاٌّسْمَآءَ الْحُسْنَى

(Say (O Muhammad ﷺ): "Invoke Allah or invoke Ar-Rahman (Allah), by whatever name you invoke Him (it is the same), for to Him belong the Best Names.") (17:110)

Only Musaylimah and those who followed his misguided ways described Musaylimah by Ar-Rahman.

As for Allah's Name Ar-Rahim, Allah has described others by it. For instance, Allah said,

لَقَدْ جَآءَكُمْ رَسُولٌ مِّنْ أَنفُسِكُمْ عَزِيزٌ عَلَيْهِ مَا عَنِتُّمْ حَرِيصٌ عَلَيْكُمْ بِالْمُؤْمِنِينَ رَءُوفٌ رَّحِيمٌ

(Verily, there has come unto you a Messenger (Muhammad ﷺ ) from amongst yourselves (i.e. whom you know well). It grieves him that you should receive any injury or difficulty. He (Muhammad ﷺ) is anxious over you (to be rightly guided) for the believers (he is) kind (full of pity), and Rahim (merciful)) (9:128).

Allah has also described some of His creation using some of His other Names. For instance, Allah said,

إِنَّا خَلَقْنَا الإِنسَـنَ مِن نُّطْفَةٍ أَمْشَاجٍ نَّبْتَلِيهِ فَجَعَلْنَـهُ سَمِيعاً بَصِيراً

(Verily, We have created man from Nutfah (drops) of mixed semen (sexual discharge of man and woman), in order to try him, so We made him hearer (Sami`) and seer (Basir) (76:2).

In conclusion, there are several of Allah's Names that are used as names for others besides Allah. Further, some of Allah's Names are exclusive for Allah alone, such as Allah, Ar-Rahman, Al-Khaliq (the Creator), Ar-Raziq (the Sustainer), and so forth.

Hence, Allah started the Tasmiyah (meaning, `In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious Most Merciful') with His Name, Allah, and described Himself as Ar-Rahman, (Most Gracious) which is softer and more general than Ar-Rahim. The most honorable Names are mentioned first, just as Allah did here.

A Hadith narrated by Umm Salamah stated that the recitation of the Messenger of Allah ﷺ was slow and clear, letter by letter,

بِسْمِ اللَّهِ الرَّحْمَـنِ الرَّحِيمِ - الْحَمْدُ للَّهِ رَبِّ الْعَـلَمِينَ - الرَّحْمَـنِ الرَّحِيمِ - مَـلِكِ يَوْمِ الدِّينِ

(In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All the praises and thanks be to Allah, the Lord of all that exists. The Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. The Owner of the Day of Recompense) (1:1-4).

And this is how a group of scholars recite it. Others connected the recitation of the Tasmiyah to Al-Hamd.

End^[8]

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11.Questions & Answers regarding  Bismillāhir-Raḥmānir-Raḥīm (بِسۡمِ اللهِ الرَّحۡمٰنِ الرَّحِيۡمِ) called Basmalah & A‘ūdhu billāhi min ash-shayṭān ir-rajīm(أعوذ بالله من الشيطان الرجيم) called Isti`adhah.

1.What if we read the Quran from anywhere or from the middle of Quran, do we need to recite Basmalah(Bismillahi ir-Rahman ir-Rahim)?

The answer is; recite as it is what you see in the Mushaf(is an Arabic word for a codex or collection of sheets, but also refers to a written copy of the Quran). I heard the evidence from Shaykh Fawzan, but I am unable to remember it at this time.

2.The Ruling On Reciting The Basmalah In Sūrah Al-Fātiḥah Out Loud In Ṣalāh | Shaykh Ṣāliḥ Al-Fawzān : It is read silently. It is not read loudly. This is the sunnah; that the Basmalah in the first chapter of Al-Quran Surah Fatihah is read silently.  See here[translation text in English + Arabic Audio], Why Do We Say The Basmalah In Al-Fātiḥah Silently In Ṣalāh? Answered by Shaykh Ṣāliḥ bn Fawzān

 

3.Saying the Basmalah in Audible Prayers(prayers in which imam recite surah Fatiha loud like in Salatul Fajir, Maghrib & Isha are Audible prayers)

The basmalah should be said silently when performing a prayer in which the recitation is audible as the basmalah and the accompanying Qurʾān recitation will be said silently in all other inaudible prayers. Thus, even if the recitation is audible in the prayer, those being led should not hear their imām say the basmalah. This is because all of the aḥādīth that have been narrated from the Prophet (صلى الله عليه وسلم) prove that he used to say it silently.^[9]

4.Some people normally say: "Bismilian" whenever they intend to do anything normal. Is this something legislated or should it be rejected? By Shaykh Salih Al Fawzan:

“Remembering Allah (the Most High) by saying Bismillah is among the things that grant protection from the remembrances of Allah. Saying it is a legislative practice except when a person is relieving himself in the bathroom. In that instance he doesn’t mention Allah’s name until he leaves, however, he can remember Allah in his heart but not on his tongue.

5.I forget to say Bismillah before eating by Allamah Imam Muhammad Ibn Salih Al Uthaymin: “ The scholars have differed regarding saying bismillãh ("in the name of Allāh") before eating, is it obligatory or Islamically Recommended?

What is correct is that it is obligatory and that it is mandatory for a person to say bismilläh when he is about to eat. If he forgets, he says the basmalah when he remembers and says bismilläh awwalahu wa akhirahu ("in the name of Allãh in its beginning and its end") If he doesn't do this then his punishment is that his enemy will eat with him. And he is the devil. May Alläh aid us and you against him. ” [Source: I forget to say Bismillah before eating, what should I do?]

6.I Forgot to Say Bismillah Before Wudu | Shaykh al-Albani

Questioner: My Shaykh, I do not know for sure, but I believe one of the youth asked you yesterday or wanted to ask you regarding someone forgetting to say bismilläh before performing wudu (ablution). For example, he reached the point of washing his feet and then remembered he did not say bismilläh.  What should he do?

Shaykh al-Albani: He should say bismillãh once he remembers, and nobody asked me about this Yesterday.  Questioner: Nobody Asked? Shaykh Al Albani: Perhaps, he was not able to. 

Another Questioner: What if he made wudu (ablution) and did not say bismilläh at all, basically he forgot Completely? Shaykh Al Albani: There is nothing upon him inshAllah, on the condition that he usually says bismillah.  However if he neglectful (generally), then his situation is dangerous. [source: Forget to Say Bismillah Before Wudu by Allamah Imam Muhammad Nasiruddin Al-Albani RahimahuAllah]

7.Can I say Bismillah in the Bathroom Before Performing Wudu? | Shaykh Salih al-Luhaydan

Questioner:

Is it permissible to say Bismilläh before making wudu in the

Bathroom? May Allah raise your station.

Shaykh Salih al-Luhaydan: Yes, it is permissible. People should not make wudu while seated in the toilet seat. Once they have performed Istinga(genital cleansing), they should get up from that place to make wudu then say bismillah, even if they are still in the bathroom. [ source: Bismillah in the bathroom before making wudu]

8.Is it Obligatory to say Bismillah before a Surah in Salah(Namaj) by Allamah Imam Abdul Aziz ibn Baz RahimahuAllah

Question: If the one who is praying forgets to utter the ‘basmallah’ (bismillahi Rahmani Raheem) in his salah does this invalidate the salah, or does he have to do sujud as-sahu (prostration of forgetfulness)? May Allah reward you.

Answer from Imam Bin ibn Baz: In the name of Allah the most Gracious and the most Merciful & may the peace & blessings be upon the messenger of Allah and upon his family and companions & whoever has been guided to the right path.

The correct view from the statements of the people of knowledge is that ‘basmallah’ is sunnah & not an obligation. But it is initiated before every surah(114 chapters of the Quran) during the salah and outside (salah) except Surah Bara’ah which is also called Surah At-Tawba - the Repentance). So if the one who prays forgets it then there’s no need for him to do anything and his salah is correct and doesn’t need to make sujud as-Sahu. End of speech

Side point: Anas reported: I observed prayer along with the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) and with Abu Bakr, Umar and Uthman (may Allah be pleased with all of them), but I never heard any one of them reciting Bismillah-ir-Rahman-ir-Rahim loudly.

Sahih Muslim 399a.

Narrated Anas bin Malik: The Prophet, Abu Bakr and `Umar used to start the prayer with "Al hamdu li l-lahi Rabbi l-`alamin (All praise is but to Allah, Lord of the Worlds).

Sahih al-Bukhari 743

9.Is it permissible to listen to the Quran while in the bathroom? - Explained by Shaykh Bin Baaz

Question:

As it relates to listening to the Quran from a radio device while the person is in the bathroom, is it a sin to listen to it or not?

Shaykh Abdul-Aziz Bin Baaz:

There is no harm in him listening to it if the reciter is outside of the bathroom. If the recorded voice is outside of the bathroom, and the radio is outside of the bathroom, while he is listening to the Quran or beneficial hadith, while he is in this condition there is nothing wrong with this. It is only hated to speak or recite it.

As for his listening to a recording which is outside of the bathroom or a radio which is outside of the bathroom, so he benefits from this time, there is nothing wrong with this.

And some of the Imams have mentioned, and I believe it was Abul-Abbass Shaykh of Islam ibn Taymiyyah-may Allah have mercy upon him him-narrated from his grandfather Al-Majd that he used to order some of the reciters to recite outside of the bathroom while he was in the bathroom, so he could listen in order for him not to waste his time while he was in the bathroom. And this is from great diligence upon listening to knowledge. Thus the student of knowledge listening to knowledge or the Quran while he is in the bathroom from a radio which is outside of the bathroom, or a recording outside of the bathroom, is no problem. [Source: Is it permissible to listen to the Quran while in the bathroom?]

10.Saying Bismillah before eating

'Umar bin Abu Salamah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:

Messenger of Allah (ﷺ), said to me, "Mention Allah's Name (i.e., say Bismillah before starting eating), eat with your right hand, and eat from what is near you."

[Al-Bukhari and Muslim, Riyad Us-Saliheen 727]

'Aishah (May Allah be pleased with her) reported:

Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said, "When any of you wants to eat, he should mention the Name of Allah in the beginning, (i.e., say Bismillah). If he forgets to do it in the beginning, he should say Bismillah awwalahu wa akhirahu (I begin with the Name of Allah at the beginning and at the end)."

[At-Tirmidhi and Abu Dawud, Riyad as-Salihin 728, Jami` at-Tirmidhi 1858(Sahih by Imam Al-Albani), Sunan Ibn Majah 3264(Sahih)].

أعوذ بالله من الشيطان الرجيم 11(I seek refuge with Allah from Satan, the accursed) saying when one gets Angry

The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: "If a man gets angry and says, ‘I seek refuge with Allah,’ his anger will go away." (Sahih al-Jami’ al-Saghir, no. 695)

The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: "If any of you becomes angry, let him keep silent." (Reported by Imam Ahmad, al-Musnad, 1/329; see also Sahih al-Jami’, 693, 4027)

The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: "If any of you becomes angry and he is standing, let him sit down, so his anger will go away; if it does not go away, let him lie down."

According to scholarly opinion, it is permissible to say "Bismillāhir-Raḥmānir-Raḥīm" before eating, though the recommended practice is to say "Bismillah". This is based on the hadith narrated by `A’ishah (may Allah be pleased with her), where the Prophet ﷺ said:

“When one of you eats some food, let him say Bismillah. If he forgets to do so at the beginning, let him say Bismillah fi awwalihi wa akhirihi (In the name of Allah at the beginning and end).”
(Narrated by At-Tirmidhi, 1781; classed as authentic by Shaykh Al-Albani)

While the full phrase "Bismillāhir-Raḥmānir-Raḥīm" is not specifically mentioned in this context, many scholars permit its use. Shaykh Al-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah (may Allah have mercy on him) stated:

“If one says when eating, Bismillāhir-Raḥmānir-Raḥīm, that is good and more perfect.”
(End quote from Al-Fatawa Al-Kubra, 5/480)

Similarly, An-Nawawi (may Allah have mercy on him) mentioned:

“The best is to say Bismillāhir-Raḥmānir-Raḥīm, but if one says Bismillah, that is sufficient and fulfills the Sunnah.”
(End quote from Al-Adhkar, 1/231)

Therefore, while "Bismillah" is the prescribed phrase before eating, saying "Bismillāhir-Raḥmānir-Raḥīm" is permissible and considered more complete by some scholars.

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12. Summary in points:

1. Meaning of Basmalah (بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم):
   

• Translation: In the Name of Allah, the Entirely Merciful, the Especially Merciful.
  
• “Ar-Raḥmān” = mercy for all creation, “Ar-Raḥīm” = special mercy for believers.
  
• Used at the start of all Qur’ān chapters except Surah At-Tawbah.
  

2. Word-by-Word Meaning:
   

• بِسْمِ (Bismi) = In the Name of
  
• اللهِ (Allah) = The One True God
  
• الرَّحْمَٰنِ (Ar-Rahman) = The Most Compassionate
  
• الرَّحِيمِ (Ar-Raheem) = The Especially Merciful
  

3. Common English Translations: Multiple versions exist, e.g. “Most Gracious, Most Merciful” or “Entirely Merciful, Especially Merciful.”
   
4. Purpose of Saying Basmalah:
   

• Start every action seeking Allah’s blessings, guidance, and protection.
  
• Reminder that everything is by Allah’s permission.
  

5. Practice of the Prophet ﷺ and Scholars:
   

• Prophet ﷺ began letters, treaties, and writings with Basmalah.
  
• Scholars (like Imam al-Bukhari, Ibn Abdul-Wahhab) followed the same Sunnah.
  
• Some avoided extra introductions to avoid speaking before Allah and His Messenger.
  

6. Khutbat al-Ḥājah vs Basmalah:
   

• Prophet ﷺ often recited Khutbat al-Ḥājah before sermons (warning against bid‘ah).
  
• Scholars considered Basmalah more suitable for written works.
  

7. Consequences of Innovation (Bid‘ah):
   

• Innovators will be deprived of Prophet’s intercession.
  
• Allah may block their repentance.
  
• Shayṭān prefers innovation over sins because innovators think they’re right.
  

8. Scholars’ Explanations:
   

• Shaykh Moosa Richardson: Ar-Raḥmān = mercy for all, Ar-Raḥīm = mercy for believers in Hereafter.
  
• Shaykh Abu Iyyad Amjad Rafiq: Basmalah starts every surah except At-Tawbah.
  
• Imam Ibn Bāz: Explained isti‘ādhah (seeking refuge from Shayṭān) + detailed rulings on Basmalah.
  

9. Rulings on Basmalah:
   

• Recite before Qur’an, except Surah At-Tawbah.
  
• In prayer: recite silently (not loudly).
  
• Begin every important matter with it (eating, drinking, entering masjid, traveling, writing letters, etc.).
  
• Required when slaughtering animals.
  

10. Practical Issues:
    

• If forget Basmalah before eating → say “Bismillah awwalahu wa akhirahu.”
  
• If forget before wuḍūʾ (ablution) → say when remembered; if totally forgotten, no sin if it’s not habitual.
  
• Can say Basmalah in bathroom (quietly) before wuḍūʾ.
  
• Basmalah in Salah: Sunnah, not obligatory. If forgotten, Salah still valid.
  
• Listening to Qur’an in bathroom (from outside source) is allowed.
  

11. Eating Etiquette (Hadiths):
    

• Prophet ﷺ taught: Say Basmalah, eat with right hand, eat what is near.
  
• If forget, say “Bismillah awwalahu wa akhirahu.”
  

12. When Angry:
    

• Say “A‘ūdhu billāhi min ash-Shayṭānir-Rajīm” to calm anger.
  
• Sit down or lie down if angry, and remain silent.
  

13. Scholarly Opinion on Basmalah Before Eating:
    

• Saying just “Bismillah” is Sunnah.
  
• Full phrase “Bismillāhir-Raḥmānir-Raḥīm” is permissible and even better.
  

✅ In short: Basmalah means starting in Allah’s Name, seeking His mercy and blessings. It is a Sunnah to begin all acts of importance with it, from Qur’an recitation to daily tasks like eating, drinking, writing, or traveling. Scholars emphasize its role in protecting from Shayṭān, showing gratitude, and ensuring blessings in actions.

13.Footnotes: Read the footnotes as you read the main text, because they add a lot of benefits. ✅

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